Top Things to do in Vancouver Island
Top 10 Points of Interest & Landmarks in Vancouver Island, Canada
Discover the best top things to do in Vancouver Island, Canada including The Butchart Gardens, Government Street, Wharf Street, Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada, Wall Murals, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, Ogden Point Terminal & Breakwater, Ripple Rock, The Old Schoolhouse Arts Centre, Pulteney Point Lighthouse.
Restaurants in Vancouver Island
1. The Butchart Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11,216 reviews
Come enjoy our breathtaking 22 ha (55 acres) of gardens year around. In Spring, countless tulips, daffodils and hyacinths will give you a buffet of fragrances and colours. You’ll be saying “wow” when you experience our Summer: The Rose Garden, evening entertainment, subtle night illuminations, the Saturday firework show, and boat tours to name a few of the delights. Perennial borders start their stunning show in late summer, and the Japanese maples turn to russet, gold, and red in the fall. Be captivated by the Magic of Christmas with its decorations, expansive lighting and outdoor ice skating rink. Top off the day with a ride on the carousel and a great meal. Come see why we’ve been designated a National Historic Site.
Reviewed By F2353OMnancyr - Mount Vernon, United States
You need at least 4 hours to take in this spectacular experience. Don't miss this opportunity! Gardens include the mind-blowing quarry, the Italian garden with reflecting pool, the rose garden, the Japanese garden, the dahlia garden, with sculptures and surprises at every turn, and many small inlets for solitude, reflection and appreciation. We were lucky to hear the Victoria Symphony rehearsing while we strolled under magnificent trees and took in the breathtaking views. This is a world-class garden.
2. Government Street
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 979 reviews
Busy street lined with some of Victoria's biggest tourist attractions.
Reviewed By PookyCake - Victoria, Canada
There can be little doubt that Government Street is an important hub in Victoria. With clear access to the harbour and home to the seat of the Province’s government, it is a major political, economic and transport center; however, reading through the myriad of TripAdvisor reviews, it would be difficult to garner such a picture. Instead, most tend to simplify the Government Street experience to that of a bastion for tourists: “A nice downtown street with lots of stores, restaurants and pubs” is an apt summary of what most say about this significant area of BC’s capital. To a certain extent, such sentiment isn’t entirely wrong – Government Street does carry many a tourist shop and is bustling with visitors from Spring through Fall – but it’s not entirely right, either. Government Street is packed with a lot history. We just need to put down our selfie sticks and open our eyes to see it. Indeed, to talk about Government Street as if it were nothing more than “T-shirt-beach towel & maple syrup shops” is to do it a gross disservice and, I think, just plain ignorant. Such views downplay or outright ignore the history that’s staring them right in the face. For one, Government Street is littered with heritage buildings erected anywhere between 1869 and 1931. Some are listed on TripAdvisor, but a lot aren’t. The fact that a number of these edifices – many built during the Victorian period – are still in use and beautifully maintained speaks to the character of the city. Second, Government Street has held the key to Victoria’s political history since at least the late 1800s, when it became the formal gathering place for our Provincial politicians. Many a consequential decision has been rendered in these handsome Parliament buildings since 1893. Third, Government Street is also home to what I’ll call BC’s earliest example of the cultural mosaic. A large section of Government Street actually cuts through Victoria’s Chinatown (the oldest in Canada), which is a destination in itself. Granted, the Chinese faced segregation in the early years, but the tides of history have worked hard to eliminate this. The end result has been a touring experience – through Government Street – that is socially rich, culturally complex, and thus so much more than mere shops and restaurants. What I really appreciate about Government Street – and Victoria – is the fact that it seems to have struck the proper and right balance between its past and the contemporary present. As you wander this “golden route,” you can explore and see many of this city’s great landmarks and sites: The Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, Empress Hotel, Emily Carr House, Historic Chinatown, Munro’s Books, Murchie’s Tea, Cowichan Trading, the ever popular Roberta’s Hats and, to a lesser extent, The Bay Centre. Between all of these sites, there’s a good mix of social, economic, political and even religious history. There’s also a good dose of our current ethos. In short, unlike other major areas I’ve visited elsewhere (Robson Street in Vancouver, for example), Government Street hasn’t jettisoned its vibrant Victorian-era architecture in favour of post-modern gentrification. After ambling about Government Street, one is likely to get hungry. Given that this area of Victoria is such a hub of social activity, it should come as no surprise that there’s a healthy plethora of dining options to be had. If you want something high end, you can certainly have it, but there’s plenty of wallet-friendly options, too. Off the top of my head, I’d recommend attending any one of: Irish Times Pub (building erected in 1894), Q at the Empress, Bard & Banker (opened in 1885 as the Bank of BC; Robert Service worked here a short while), and Brasserie L’Ecole. Or, if you don’t mind deviating off Government, great eateries like Little Jumbo, The Keg, Nautical Nellies and IL Terrazzo are just a few minutes’ walk away. I love how many of these establishments maintain their Victorian-era charm and openly acknowledge their history. Government Street has certainly evolved over the years but, thankfully, it hasn’t willfully chosen to ignore its rich history unlike so many other places. We can come here and admire the Victorian-era heritage, or we can shop and play tourist – it’s our call. At day’s end, we’ll all recognize that Government Street epitomizes Victoria, regardless of why we’re here. Try it – I challenge you. Google “Victoria BC.” The first image you’ll see is of the Inner Harbour with the Parliament Buildings in the background. We all come to Government Street, whether we’re actively looking for it or not; thus, to say “This is not a destination” is foolhardy in the extreme.
3. Wharf Street
4. Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,276 reviews
Reviewed By BFRay - Bellows Falls, United States
If you want to put a real shine on your stay in Victoria, choose the Empress Hotel. It is pricey, but the accommodations are truly 5 star, world-class. From the exceptionally gracious and receptive front desk personnel to the bell captains to the doormen [no doorwomen in sight during our visit] to the entire staff we encountered, it felt warmly welcoming. Even Winston, the house dog, was friendly. We were a family of three generations, and felt like part of the family there. Look up at the 250,000 hand-cut Czech crystals, 4000 pound "cloud" chandelier for your first "Wow!" moment. The furniture and furnishings, the interior architecture, lighting, window treatments, etc. are all exquisite. High Tea is an absolute must, of course. We dressed for the occasion, but there is no formal dress code. My 9 year old grandson, himself a world traveler, was impressed and drank almost his entire pot of tea. The personal attention makes you feel like royalty for an hour or two. The Q, the Bengal Lounge are both excellent dining experiences. Be sure to try the PNW oysters and the signature Empress Blue Gin & Tonic. The Empress is on the harbor, and a 12 minute walk from the Victoria Clipper, our transportation from Seattle. It makes a great headquarters for all Victoria has to offer.
5. Wall Murals
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 442 reviews
Reviewed By PattiS1979 - Cold Lake, Canada
What a beautiful tribute to the local community, it is a nice walk around the town to see all the murals
6. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 405 reviews
A 20-minute drive from downtown Victoria, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites offer abundant ways to spend a fascinating half or full day exploring historic battlements, weapons and displays. Stroll through a restored Garry oak meadow. Take the 10-minute walk to Fisgard Lighthouse. Extend your stay camping in an outdoor oTENTik. Check the fort’s annual schedule and plan your visit around special family events.
Reviewed By T7180NXcindyb
If you’ve seen the City and all it offers take time out for a day for a treat. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse are waiting for you. From the Main Gate to Officers Quarters WWII Gun emplacements and all the history that comes with it. You really will feel as though the Sgt Major is nearby. Then the stunning lighthouse. There’s breakfast waiting for you and work on the light too. Take the family for a real adventure. It appeals to all ages and the views, well, you’ll just have to “Sea” for yourselves.
7. Ogden Point Terminal & Breakwater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 910 reviews
Reviewed By 600raynad
I walked the breakwater Easter weekend and it was lovely. Very cool. There is scuba diving available on the break water as well. Wish there was a garbage can/ Recycling at some point on the breakwater. The breakwater restaurant had coffee to go by donation which was nice.
8. Ripple Rock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Reviewed By 350deanas - Chandler, United States
My husband, myself & our 6 year old twins completed this hike last week. The trail is well maintained and even after a rainy day, wasn't too slippery. We hiked at the twins' pace, stopping often to look at slugs, snails, frogs, snakes, etc... taking us 1.5 hours each way. I was hesitant to do this hike with young kids based on other reviews, but am posting this to provide info for other families. While my boys were the youngest on the trail that day, they weren't the only kids and had no issues completing this hike. Definitely worth it - beautiful rain-forest, views, and of course that ultimate view of the Seymour Narrows.
9. The Old Schoolhouse Arts Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 83 reviews
The Old School House Arts Centre is the bright yellow community arts centre with a big history nestled in the heart of the picturesque community of Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. The Old School House Arts Centre houses ten shared Resident artist's studios and is an established public art gallery and art learning centre. The Gallery Gift Shop features the work of over 150 Island Artists. The music program offers a robust concert series throughout the year featuring an eclectic range of genres from acclaimed musicians. The Old School House is a non-profit charitable organization that provides vibrant community programming that is open to all - regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, financial status, age, sexual orientation, political belief, or physical limitation. *Covid-19 restrictions may affect opening hours. Please refer to the website on listing for current hours*
Reviewed By VictoriaW821
We live locally but try to visit every month or so as the main display changes. There are many different local artists working on site, painters, sculptors, jewellers etc. There is a lovely gift shop on site and they have musical events periodically.
